Overview
Legal Assistant/Paralegal Jobs in Southfield, MI at Ottenwess Law, PLC
The Legal Assistant is a critical member of the team who supports attorneys during all phases of the litigation process, from the initiation of a case to the discovery period, trial preparation, trial, and post-trial in their practice by assisting in the preparation service and filing of legal documents, maintaining files and calendar, and performing general administrative/clerical duties. The ideal candidate is organized, accountable, independent, and reliable with a professional demeanor and communicates and interacts well with attorneys, management, and the rest of the legal support team. He/she must have excellent problem-solving, written and verbal communication, and the multi-tasking skills.
What You’ll Do:
· Prepares documents from written and oral dictation; composes drafts, and revises documents, forms, and other items as required.
· Schedules couriers, notarial services, court reporters, and other special functions as needed.
· Transmits documents to clients, courts, and other agencies via appropriate method of service.
· Opens, reviews, and directs incoming mail.
· Composes, types, and distributes correspondence, including e-mail and faxes, using individual initiative and as assigned.
· Organizes and maintains electronic file system; processes all documents for appropriate filing.
· Answers and screens telephone calls, assisting callers whenever possible without giving legal advice; arranges conference calls.
· Coordinates attorney appointments and due date calendars, ensuring that all dates are communicated with the appropriate party.
· Prepares jury instructions and trial binders; coordinates trial exhibits.
· Arranges and coordinates travel and prepares expense reports.
· Processes client disbursements, expense reports, and timesheets.
· Ensures that billable hours are input into computer system correctly and in a timely manner depending on individual attorney needs/assignment.
· Conducts research as requested utilizing appropriate reference sources.
· Assists in development and implementation of office systems and procedures as needed.
· Assists with special projects as assigned.
· Performs general clerical duties including but not limited to filing, photocopying, faxing, and mailing as needed.
· Demonstrates a high level of professionalism in dealing with confidential and sensitive issues.
· Performs other related duties as assigned by management.
About You:
· Dedicated, detail-oriented, and customer-service savvy interactions.
· Ability to interact effectively with a wide range of staff throughout the company.
· Aptitude in identifying and resolving issues in file resolution and litigation timeliness.
· Drafting and analytical skills to update and develop new operational procedures.
· Strong familiarity with civil procedure, including understanding motion content and court filings.
· Skill working with and driving attorneys.
Your Qualifications:
· Associate’s degree (A.A.) or equivalent, three+ years related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
· Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
· Excellent grammatical and spelling skills.
· Proficient on Outlook and Microsoft products.
· Knowledge of court procedures and rules.
· Commitment to excellence and high standards.
· Strong organizational, problem-solving, and analytical skills; able to manage priorities and workflow.
· Strong interpersonal skills.
· Ability to understand and follow written and verbal instructions
· Ability to deal effectively with a diversity of individuals at all organizational levels.
· Good judgement with the ability to make timely and sound decisions
· Creative, flexible, and innovative team player
· Ability to work independently and as a member of various teams and committees.
· Versatility, flexibility, and a willingness to work within constantly changing priorities with enthusiasm.
· Acute attention to detail.
· Demonstrated ability to plan and organize projects.
· Ability to perform diversified clerical functions and basic accounting procedures.
· Ability to effectively communicate with people at all levels and from various backgrounds.
Experience:
Calendaring: 2 years (Required)
e-filing (both state and federal): 1 year (Required)
Preparation of pleadings, including tables: 1 year (Preferred)
Legal Secretary / Assistant: 2 years (Required)
Why Work With Us? Our firm culture is about teamwork, support, good communication, a work/life balance and professional development opportunities. We offer a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including:
Medical, Dental, Vision insurance
401(k) + Employer Match
Supplemental Insurance Options (LTD, Life, STD, Critical Illness, etc)
Professional Development Opportunities
Paid vacation
Paid sick days
Paid holidays
The above is intended to describe the general content of and requirements for the performance of this job. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of duties, responsibilities or physical requirements. Nothing in this job description restricts management’s right to assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $30.00 – $40.00 per hour
Benefits:
401(k)
401(k) matching
Dental insurance
Health insurance
Health savings account
Life insurance
Paid sick time
Paid time off
Vision insurance
Schedule:
8 hour shift
Monday to Friday
Experience:
Legal Secretary: 4 years (Required)
Microsoft Office: 4 years (Required)
Law office: 4 years (Preferred)
Ability to Commute:
Newport Beach, CA 92660 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Title: Legal Assistant/Paralegal
Company: Ottenwess Law, PLC
Location: Southfield, MI
